By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested nine suspects in connection with the kidnapping and killing of a traditional ruler, Eze Francis Igwe.

Eze Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike Ikwo and father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Barrister Kelechi Igwe, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Sunday while on his way to church.

In a statement issued on Friday, March 6, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Joshua Ukandu, said the suspects were arrested following intensive operations launched after the monarch’s abduction on March 1.

Ukandu explained that police operatives immediately deployed intelligence and technical resources to rescue the monarch. The operation first led to the arrest of two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate.

During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2 and agreed to lead security operatives to the gang’s hideout to recover the body.

However, as the police team approached the hideout, other members of the gang reportedly opened fire on the operatives. The police responded with what was described as superior firepower, overpowering the attackers during the exchange.

One of the suspects was neutralised during the gun battle while others fled the scene.

The police later arrested seven additional suspects connected to the crime and recovered a locally made pistol from them.

Ukandu added that the remains of the late monarch were subsequently recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy.

The police spokesperson said the suspects are currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang.

He added that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.